Hot Branding of Horses, Ponies, and Donkeys to Become Illegal from 9 May 2026
REGULATORY UPDATE — ANIMAL WELFARE
A five-year transitional exemption ends this month — equine owners and associations must ensure their identification practices comply with the law.
Action required: From 9 May 2026, hot branding of horses, ponies, and donkeys will be unlawful under any circumstances.
Horse, pony, and donkey owners across New Zealand are reminded of an important change in animal welfare legislation coming into effect this month. From 9 May 2026, hot branding of equids will be prohibited in all circumstances, with no exceptions.
BACKGROUND
On 9 May 2021, amendments to the Animal Welfare (Care and Procedures) Regulations 2018prohibited hot branding of animals generally under regulation 55L. However, regulation 55M provided a five-year transitional exemption allowing hot branding of horses, ponies, and donkeys to continue under controlled conditions.
That transitional period ends on 9 May 2026. The exemption under regulation 55M will be automatically revoked, making hot branding of any animal illegal in all circumstances.
WHAT REMAINS PERMITTED
Freeze branding of equids continues to be lawful under regulation 55K, provided it is carried out by a person who is experienced in, or has received training in, the correct use of the method, and who is able to recognise early signs of significant distress, injury, or ill-health so that prompt remedial action can be taken.
Microchipping also remains a fully compliant and widely used identification method and is unaffected by this change.
IDENTIFICATION METHODS AT A GLANCE
Hot branding: Prohibited from 9 May 2026
Freeze branding: Permitted — must be performed by a trained or experienced person (reg. 55K)
Microchipping Permitted: — no change
BREED SOCIETIES AND ASSOCIATIONS
We encourage all member associations to share this notice with their members and to review any identification practices used within their organisations to ensure they are in line with current regulations. Any practice involving hot branding must cease on or before 9 May 2026 to remain compliant with New Zealand law.
If you have questions about compliant identification methods or need guidance on transitioning to freeze branding or microchipping, please contact us.
References: Animal Welfare (Care and Procedures) Regulations 2018 — reg. 55K, reg. 55L, reg. 55M. Published by the New Zealand Equine Health Association.
Freeze branding of a horse.